clutch adjust

[J Franklin]

I have just started my car for the first drive. A rebuilt trans installed that has the turbo 400 clutch. It apparently needs adjustment as it barely engages high gear. In reading the Model T Ford Service book pg. 84, fig. 206, reference is made to a desired clearance, 13/16" but I cannot see what the clearance is between. Also in another book the spring length compressed is said to be 2-2 1/8". Is this with the lever pulled to neutral? Thanks for any clarification. I used a new heavy duty spring from Brattons.

 

[redmodelt]

I cut a small piece of sheet metal in an "L" shape, the lower foot being 13/16 long. I use it to set my primary settings then adjust from there as needed Keeping all fingers set the same (approx*). Forget about the 2-2-1/8 inch thing, where that got started is a good question. A good spring when check would be at 2 inches 90-100 pounds plus. The clearance is between the front of the clutch fork collier and face of the driving plate next to the finger.

*Approx because there is only one slot and each maybe off a little.

 

[J Franklin]

Thanks, the spring length reference was in Murray Fahnestock's The Model T Ford owner book. I will adjust and see what happens. Trying to get it ready for the tours from the Village Green in Cottage Grove this July.

 

[Royce P]

I use a 13/16 lug nut to set the proper distance when using original Ford clutches. Unfortunately that dimension, and the dimension for the spring, are irrelevant if you have the Turbo 400 clutch discs. You probably just need to try and tighten the three clutch tension screws 1/2 turn and try it. When the Turbo 400 discs fail you can install original Ford clutch disks (or modern replicas) for best results.